Illinois State Police to increase enforcement for Labor Day weekend

KATIE FINLON kfinlon@shawmedia.comAugust 30, 2018

Illinois State Police officials are reminding motorists to drive responsibly and to make safety their priority ahead of Labor Day weekend.

Troopers will focus their attention on intoxicated motorists, speeders, distracted drivers and seat belt enforcement as those are the primary factors that contribute to fatal traffic crashes, according to a news release. They also will patrol Illinois roads watching for and assisting stranded motorists.

The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign also will run through Monday. Additional state troopers will be on roadways and at roadside safety checks to watch for impaired drivers, the release said.

Troopers also will watch for those who fail to slow down and move over for stopped emergency vehicles. State law requires drivers to reduce speed, change lanes if possible and proceed with caution when approaching a law enforcement vehicle on the side of the road with rotating or flashing lights on.

Motorists should expect increased traffic volumes and should allow extra time in traveling to their destinations. Voluntary compliance to traffic laws will help make Labor Day travels safe for everyone, the release said.